Rasam Vada is a delicious South Indian dish combining crispy lentil fritters soaked in spicy and tangy rasam. It’s a comforting meal perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients
For the Vada:
- 1 cup urad dal (split black gram), soaked for 4 hours
- 1 green chili, chopped
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- Salt, to taste
- Oil, for deep frying
For the Rasam:
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup tamarind water (soak tamarind in warm water and extract juice)
- 1/4 cup cooked toor dal (pigeon peas), mashed
- 2 cups water
- 2-3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 dried red chilies
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon rasam powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
- 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vada
- Drain the soaked urad dal and grind it to a smooth, thick batter using minimal water.
- Add chopped green chili, grated ginger, cumin seeds, asafoetida, and salt to the batter. Mix well.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Shape the batter into small balls or flat discs and carefully drop them into the hot oil.
- Fry until the vadas are golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Rasam
- Heat ghee or oil in a pan and add mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
- Add dried red chilies and crushed garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.
- Stir in tamarind water, cooked toor dal, turmeric powder, red chili powder, rasam powder, and salt.
- Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for 8-10 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Rasam Vada
- Place the fried vadas in a serving bowl.
- Pour hot rasam over the vadas, ensuring they are well-soaked.
- Let the vadas soak for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Rasam Vada
- Crispier Vadas: Ensure the urad dal batter is thick and well-aerated for light and crispy vadas.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of chili powder and rasam powder to suit your taste.
- Serve Fresh: Rasam Vada tastes best when served hot and fresh.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
Rasam Vada is a delightful dish that beautifully blends spicy, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s a must-try for fans of South Indian cuisine!